Kentucky Online Gambling

The state of Kentucky is not necessarily opposed to gambling entertainment, with a thriving horse race betting industry that includes world-class races such as the Kentucky Derby. While domestic Kentucky online gambling has not emerged yet, there are some legally sanctioned options to choose from.

This guide focuses on the different legal gambling options available to Kentucky residents. You will find information on the legal structure of gambling in the state along with the licensed offshore market. Our team of dedicated online gambling analysts has tailored this guide to Kentucky.

Is Online Gambling Legal In Kentucky?

Kentucky has had the option of passing legislation regarding domestic online casino and poker since 2011, but no bills have been signed into law. The lack of state-regulated online and offline betting options means that legal offshore online gambling is widely popular, available in Kentucky through licensed and regulated gambling sites that are located outside of the United States. There is no official mention of these offshore sites being illegal in any of the KY gambling statutes, nor is this form of gambling entertainment prohibited by any US federal laws.

We would not be surprised if Kentucky eventually considers domestic online gambling sites due to the economic benefits that come with the industry. When and if the Bluegrass state moves forward with this type of endeavor, we will update our guide to reflect any changes.

Legal Kentucky Online Gambling Sites

Each of our recommended online gambling sites is located outside of the United States and within properly regulated gambling jurisdictions that are internationally respected. They have proper legal standing with all the countries in which they have clients and remain 100% legal for residents of Kentucky to use any and all services that they provide.

Kentucky Online & Domestic Gambling FAQ’s

Which Forms Of Gambling Are Legal In Kentucky?

Kentucky is somewhat restrictive when it comes to gambling. State laws dictate specific types of gambling. Anything other than the legal categories disclosed below are considered a violation of the law. The current legal gambling forms in Kentucky are:

State Lottery

Racetrack Betting

Pari-Mutuel Wagering

Charitable Gaming

Are There Any Legal Commercial Casinos In Kentucky?

No. Kentucky does not have any sort of brick-and-mortar casinos. This includes tribal casinos and licensed commercial casino locations. Most residents travel to casinos in neighboring states to find land-based slot and table game entertainment or opt to visit a legally licensed and regulated online casino that accepts Kentucky players.

Is Sports Betting Legal In Kentucky?

As of this writing, Kentucky is currently working on legislation to allow sports betting at state-licensed destinations. We expect the state to pass the legislation sometime in 2018 or early 2019. Currently, it is not against the law to be on sports online through legally licensed and regulated online sportsbooks that accept bets from Kentucky residents.

Are There Poker Rooms In Kentucky?

The only form of brick-and-mortar poker gambling found in Kentucky is through social games held in homes and bars. These games must adhere to strict conditions in order to remain legal, but enforcement on illegal poker games is more focused on the game operators. Since there are no casinos, there are no land-based tables. Players interested in real money poker games have the option of visiting Kentucky friendly online poker sites.

Does Kentucky Host Bingo Action?

KY residents can find local bingo action in several brick-and-mortar bingo halls throughout the state. These games differ from the games found at licensed offshore site, but they provide a place for residents to travel to and find legal gambling entertainment. Bingo is considered charitable gaming in Kentucky, meaning a special license is required. In addition, there are legally approved online bingo sites that welcome players from Kentucky.

Where Are The Best Places To Gamble In KY?

When it comes to gambling in Kentucky, the horse racing tracks are the best stops. Churchill Downs, the host of the Kentucky Derby, is a premier gambling destination for wagering on local horse races. You can even place online wagers through twinspires.com and KentuckyDerby.com. For most other forms of gambling, licensed offshore gambling sites are your best bet.

What About The Kentucky Lottery?

The state lottery is one of the largest gambling enterprises available to residents. The lottery was first created back in 1989 and has since generated over $4 billion in revenue for the state’s treasury. Lottery game options include Pick 3, Pick 4, Cash Ball, Keno, Mega Millions, Powerball and numerous scratch card options.

Will There Be Domestic Online Gambling In Kentucky?

Kentucky representatives need to get their land-based gambling market off the ground first. At the very least, it will make things easier. The latest bill thought of deals with sports gambling in the state. Whether or not any form of online gambling is attached to this remains to be seen.